86. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when it is proposed to give effect to the promise made by him after the passing of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, that there should be a revaluation of licensed houses within twelve months; and if any adjustment that may ultimately take place will be made retrospective in order to carry out the terms of his promise?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThe question whether the proposed revaluation of licensed houses which was taken in hand soon after the passing of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, can be completed is under consideration. As I have stated on several occasions, it has not been possible to complete the revaluation, because the traders concerned have been unable to supply the information required for the purpose, but I understand that the Board of Inland Revenue are now conferring with the Board of Customs and Excise as to the possibility of devising a more simple form of return to be required from licence holders and other persons concerned. As regards the latter part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement I made in the House on the 5th August, 1912, when the Finance Bill of the; year was under consideration
§ 87. Mr. CASSELasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether in arriving at the gross and total values of premises used for the purpose of manufacture or trade, tenants' fixtures, and attached machinery have been included; whether any instructions on this subject have been given to district valuers; if so, whether he will lay such instructions upon the Table of the House; whether any schedules of such fixtures are obtained by the valuers; and whether experts for the purpose of valuing such plant and machinery are employed?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEIt is the practice of the Commissioners of Inland Revenue to include the value of fixtures in the gross and total values ascertained by them under Part I. of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, but as the definition of fixtures is a matter of some difficulty and has been the subject of varying decisions in the Courts the exact items to be included must be determined by the particular facts of each case. It may, however, be broadly stated that it is the practice to include the value of fixed and attached machinery. The answer to the third part of the question is in the negative. Schedules of fixtures are obtained where necessary by the Valuation Department, the staff of which includes valuers expert in the valuation of plant and machinery.
§ Mr. CASSELIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the practice in this respect is not uniform, and will he take steps to secure uniformity?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI am not sure that is the case. It is not my information.